Job Description:

• 1) Administers respiratory therapy care and life support to patients with deficiencies and abnormalities of cardiopulmonary system, under supervision of physician and by prescription: Reads prescription, measures arterial blood gases, and reviews patient information to assess patient condition and determine requirements for treatment, such as type and duration of therapy, and medication and dosages.

• 2) Determines most suitable method of administering inhalants, precautions to be observed, and modifications which may be needed that will be compatible with physician's orders.

• 3) Sets up and operates devices, such as mechanical ventilators, therapeutic gas administration apparatus, environmental control systems, and aerosol generators.

• 4) Operates equipment to ensure specified parameters of treatment, such as volume, gas concentration, humidity, and temperature, and to administer medicinal gases and aerosol drugs to patients.

• 5) Monitors patient's physiological responses to therapy, such as vital signs, arterial blood gases, and blood chemistry changes.

• 6) Performs bronchopulmonary drainage and assists patient in performing breathing exercises.

• 7) Performs pulmonary function tests to be used by physician in diagnosis of case.

• 8) Observes equipment function and adjusts equipment to obtain optimum results to therapy.

• 9) Consults with physician in event of adverse reactions.

• 10) Maintains patient's chart that contains pertinent identification and therapy information.

• 11) Inspects and tests respiratory therapy equipment to ensure equipment is functioning safely and efficiently.

• 12) Orders repairs when needed.

• 13) Demonstrates respiratory care procedures to trainees and other health care personnel.